Laverl H. Casey

September 7, 1923 - June 2, 2012

Obituary Notice

Laverl "Salty" Casey

Laverl H. Casey, 88, of Coldwater succumbed to failing health June 2, 2012 at his daughter's residence in Three Rivers. Laverl was born on September 7, 1293 in Fredonia Township, Michigan at the home of his parents, Fred and Elsie Mae (Brandt) Casey. As a child, Casey loved running and playing baseball. He picked strawberries and delivered milk to help out his family during the Depression Era. He graduated from Tekonsha High School. Soon after graduation he married Lenna Odessa Boyer on December 24, 1942 and enlisted in the Air Force that same year. He proudly served in World War II in the 464th Bomb Group in Northern Italy. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant and repaired and calibrated bomb sights on B-24 Liberator Bombers. He returned to Coldwater after the war and put his technical expertise to work by repairing watches for Rex Kiess Jewelry and for Morris and Sumner Smith at Coldwater Optical, repairing glasses and cameras. He also worked part time at Houser's Gulf for many years. Later in life he returned to school getting his degree in accounting from Kellogg Community College and finished his working career as Office Manager at the Coldwater Board of Public Utilities. Casey was Past Commander and drill team member at Coldwater American Legion Post 52, he was also a member of the Elks Club, Coldwater Eagles, VFW and Quincy American Legion. He was an avid deer hunter, fisherman, photographer, and bowler, having won Senior State Champion Doubles with Ed Post. He bowled until the age of 87, only health issues kept him away from the alley. He was also a longtime Detroit Tigers and Lions fan. Casey and Odessa enjoyed their time with Merry Mixers Square Dancing, ballroom dancing, pairs roller skating and camping. But his greatest love was his family. He is survived by his daughter; Sharon Cox of Three Rivers, son; Rick and LuAnn Casey of Coldwater, grandchildren; Barry, Candice, Sandra, and Evin, great-grandchildren; Payne, Lara, Tessa and Ethan, his brother; Larry and all his bowling buddies. Casey was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Odessa, two brothers; Virgil and LaVelman. Per Casey's request, cremation has taken place and there will be no services. Please think of him and smile. Memorial donations may be directed to the Branch County Veteran's Transportation Fund. You may leave an online tribute by visiting www.putnamfuneralhome.com